WHERE BRAINS MEET BEAUTY

Picture this: Your sugar cravings aren’t about willpower but a complex neurological battle happening deep inside your brain. This week, we’re uncovering a revolutionary approach to wellness with Dr. Nicole Avena, the neuroscience maverick set to change everything you thought you knew about health.

As an Associate Professor at Mount Sinai and bestselling author of Sugarless, Dr. Nicole has revealed a shocking truth: Sugar activates the same dopamine pathways as cocaine, locking millions in a relentless cycle of cravings and consumption that wreaks havoc on their health.

But here’s the game-changer: Dr. Nicole isn’t just identifying the problem—she’s offering a radical solution. In this transformative episode, she brings her unique blend of clinical expertise and holistic insight to challenge us to move beyond quick fixes. Instead, she invites us to embrace a deeper understanding of what our bodies and minds genuinely need.

This isn’t just another conversation about health. It’s a call to action—a shift from traditional healthcare to a more intuitive, self-aware approach to living. Dr. Nicole blends cutting-edge science with time-tested wellness practices, showing us how to truly listen to ourselves and unlock a healthier, more balanced life.

Don’t miss this powerful episode with one of wellness’s most insightful minds. Follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more.

What happens when you realize the walls that have protected your success might also be limiting your potential? In this captivating episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, Kelly Fanning, SVP and General Manager of Clinique North America, reveals the moment that changed everything – a simple lunch with friends that forced her to question whether her success was truly her own or simply a product of her environment.

After fifteen years of climbing the corporate ladder at Johnson & Johnson, Kelly found herself at a crossroads during her maternity leave. While her peers had navigated multiple career shifts, she had flourished within the same corporate walls. It took the perspective of motherhood and a dash of courage to make her ask the question many successful leaders fear: "Is it me, or is it the system that's made me successful?"

In this intimate conversation, Kelly shares the three pillars of leadership that shaped her own success: true empowerment, active coaching, and helping others envision their future. Her story reminds us that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is step outside our comfort zone, even when – especially when – we're at the top of our game.

Kelly’s journey serves as an important reminder that leadership is not about self-preservation or staying safe within the confines of past successes. It's about taking calculated risks, mentoring with purpose, and empowering others to see beyond what they think is possible. 

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation about leadership, growth, and the courage to step beyond the familiar. And don’t forget to follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and more!

When you’re committed to a path, what does it take to rise to the top? In this heartfelt episode of Where Brains Meet Beauty, we sit down with the remarkable Dr. Dendy Engelman, an award-winning dermatologist who shares her inspiring journey of dedication and compassion in the world of dermatology and aesthetics.

Dr. Dendy’s story begins with a simple school field trip alongside her physician father that ignited her passion for medicine. From that moment, she dedicated herself to years of hard work, focus, and perseverance, ultimately becoming a respected voice in aesthetic dermatology. She beautifully articulates how science, psychology, and wisdom blend to create life-changing experiences for her patients, highlighting the profound impact of a thoughtful and patient-centered approach.

In this intimate conversation, Dr. Dendy opens up about the emotional complexities of her field, emphasizing the importance of balancing the enhancement of her patients’ appearances with the safeguarding of their emotional well-being. She believes that true transformation transcends surface-level changes, touching the very core of self-acceptance and confidence.

As a working mother of two and a sought-after voice in the industry, Dr. Dendy candidly discusses the challenges she faces in balancing her thriving career with family life. Her insights remind us that growth is about more than just ambition; it’s about the patient commitment to excellence, the strength to keep pushing forward, and the courage to embrace every step of the journey.

Her story is a powerful reminder that true success comes not from shortcuts or the pursuit of fame, but from a relentless dedication to one's craft and the genuine desire to uplift others along the way.

You won’t want to miss this episode. Don't forget to follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast on Instagram for updates on new episodes and exclusive off-air content.

What does it take to give up a normal life to style A-list celebrities? Have you ever wondered if fame and fortune are worth the sacrifices? In Episode 269 of Where Brains Meet Beauty, we wrap up our ‘Artistry Wisdom’ series with celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons, founder of Andrew Fitzsimons Hair. Andrew opens up about the highest highs and lowest of lows of his journey to becoming a household name in Hollywood.

Join us as Andrew takes us on his remarkable journey from his humble beginnings in Ireland to becoming Hollywood's go-to stylist for icons like Kim Kardashian, Bella Hadid, and Madonna. Known for his fearless artistry and passion for beauty, Andrew shares how he turned his dream into reality, navigating the pressures of the fashion capitals of Paris, New York, and LA.

Through this candid conversation, we explore Andrew’s early influences, his challenges growing up as a creative in a small, less accepting environment, and how he made his escape to the global stage. Andrew’s personality shines through as he opens up about self-doubt, ambition, and building a career that thrives on self-expression. This episode is not just about hair tips—it’s about Andrew’s inspiring career journey, how he’s used his talents to lift others, and the lessons he's learned along the way.

As Andrew opens up about the sacrifices he's made, he leaves us with a thought-provoking question: Is it worth it? How do you reconcile your desires with career ambitions? Tune in to hear Andrew’s surprising take on how he navigates this crossroad, and how, in the end, success is not always what it seems.

From small-town dreamer to skincare maven for the stars, Angela Caglia's journey is a masterclass in turning passion into empire. This captivating 'Artistry Wisdom' episode of "Where Brains Meet Beauty" unveils the remarkable ascent of a celebrity esthetician whose hands have perfected the complexions of Hollywood's elite, including Barbra Streisand and Sting. With 28 years of experience, Angela's tale is a riveting odyssey of grit, glamour, and innovation in beauty. Her path from a farming town to the glamorous streets of Paris and New York showcases the power of ambition and adaptability. Angela's story includes studying international business, discovering her passion for skincare in Paris, and eventually making her mark in Los Angeles.

This episode explores Angela's pivotal experiences, including her time at Ole Henriksen's spa and the launch of her groundbreaking skincare line, Angela Caglia Skincare. Listeners will gain insights into balancing hands-on esthetics with running a global skincare brand, and the challenges of entrepreneurship in the beauty industry.

Angela shares her unique approach to skincare, describing herself as a "blind artist" who uses touch and intuition to understand and treat skin. She emphasizes the importance of trust when working with high-profile clients and staying connected to customers' needs while innovating in product development.

Her story offers valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring estheticians, beauty professionals, and entrepreneurs alike. Tune in to Episode 268 to hear how Angela Caglia has carved her niche in the beauty world, blending hands-on expertise with innovative product development. Check out her products at angelacaglia.com and remember to follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast on Instagram for updates on new episodes and exclusive off-air content.

This episode features Tina Uzzardi, founder and CEO of Cheeks + Co, in an inspiring exploration of artistry in the beauty industry. Tina's journey from aspiring entrepreneur to successful spa owner showcases the intersection of business acumen and skincare artistry.

We delve into Tina's career journey from operations at clean beauty brand ILIA to founding Cheeks + Co. Inspired by her struggles to find advanced skincare guidance in a spa-like setting, Tina decided to create the experience she craved. This led her to become a licensed aesthetician, blending her business savvy with hands-on expertise. Her commitment to continuous learning and improvement shines through as she discusses her training methods and plans for expanding education within her company.

Listeners will be inspired by Tina's journey from a self-proclaimed "jack of all trades" to a master of her craft. Her story exemplifies how artistry in skincare goes beyond mere technique, encompassing business strategy, customer experience, and a deep understanding of individual skin needs. 

Tune in to Episode 267 to hear how Tina Uzzardi is revolutionizing the facial experience and building a beauty empire on her own terms. Tina also gave us a promo code - WBMB20

good for 15% off any products at cheeks.co - We love that they partner with female founded brands and have curated choices that reflect their ‘clean’ commitment to healthy skin. 

From Hollywood screenwriter to beauty industry innovator, Sahara Lotti's journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. In this electrifying 'Artistry Wisdom' episode of the Where Brains Meet Beauty podcast, we dive into the world of Sahara Lotti Lashify’s founder and CEO, whose relentless drive has revolutionized the beauty landscape.

Sahara's story begins in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, where her screenwriting talents caught the eye of major studios. However, her keen eye for innovation led her to identify a gap in the beauty market, propelling her to invent the world's first DIY lash extension system. With over 600 patents, Sahara has become the undisputed queen of lash technology.

Her high-octane energy is palpable as she recounts the twists and turns of her entrepreneurial journey. From the early days of Lashify to its current status as a game-changer in the beauty industry, Sahara's artistry and inventive spirit shine through. She reveals how makeup artists have been crucial to advancing her innovations, and how her passion for people and connection fuels her success.

This episode delves into Sahara's unconventional methods, from her meticulous patent strategies to her refreshing take on team building. Listeners will be inspired by her raw honesty about the challenges of scaling a business and the importance of staying true to one's vision. Sahara's story exemplifies the art of thinking differently in a saturated market.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply curious about the intersection of beauty and innovation, this episode promises insights that will leave you both enlightened and entertained. 

Tune in to Episode 266 to hear how Sahara Lotti writes her own rules and redefines beauty on her terms. Listen wherever you enjoy your favorite podcasts, and don't forget to follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast on Instagram for updates on new episodes and exclusive off-air content.

Sahara sent us a discount code for new customers,

25% off at checkout with code: BEAUTYBRAINS at lashify.com

Celebrity makeup artist and founder of sustainable beauty brand Neen, Jeanine Lobell once dreamed of joining the circus—a far cry from enhancing the beauty of stars like Cate Blanchett, Natalie Portman and Nicole Kidman. In this ‘Artistry Wisdom’ episode of the “Where Brains Meet Beauty” podcast, we explore the journey of one of independent beauty's true pioneers. From embracing mindfulness to cementing her status as an icon in the cultural zeitgeist, Jeanine shares valuable insights and reflections on her remarkable career.

With over two decades of experience, Jeanine has expertly navigated the “circus” of life, artistry, and entrepreneurship, gracefully balancing and leaping through the ups and downs of her career. Her natural ability to "tune out the noise" early in her journey, coupled with a strong intuition and a deep recognition of her artistic talents, has led to a remarkable trajectory. Her work has graced the covers of Vogue, W, Vanity Fair, and Harper’s Bazaar, cementing her status as an industry icon. Yet, beyond her professional achievements lies a rich life and a sense of identity that transcends her work.

This perspective and outlook on life inspired the creation of her brand Stila, founded in 1994. Stila revolutionized makeup by championing it as a vessel for culture and community with its innovative paper packaging and formulas. The brand's acquisition by Estée Lauder Companies in 1999 was a monumental achievement for Lobell’s independent vision.

Today, Jeanine continues to break new ground with Neen, her sustainable, subscription-based beauty brand that challenges conventional beauty standards. In an industry that never stops, Jeanine truly embodies the role of ringleader in her own circus and we loved learning more about her journey!

Tune in to this week's episode on your favorite podcast platform to hear more. If you want to try any of Jeanine’s products she gave us an exclusive code - WBMB15 for 15% off site wide on weareneen.com Valid for this week from 9/4 - 9/11

Don't forget to follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast on Instagram for updates on new episodes and exclusive off-air content.

#WBMB #JeanineLobell #CelebrityMakeupArtist #CareerJourney #FemaleEntrepreneur

From growing up with a dream of becoming an artist, captivated by the world of interior design, to channeling her passion into a successful career in sales, East Area Vice President at Merz Aesthetics- Patricia Jones earned her seat at the table. 

Patricia's love for artistry never waned; instead, it found a new and profound expression in the world of aesthetics. Throughout our discussion on this week’s episode, Patricia reflects on how in the former male-dominated industry, she continued to trust in her work-ethic and leadership skills to be a strong voice and uplift those around her. Her journey is a powerful story of leadership, resilience, and finding the joy in being a strong supporter for others. Patricia’s career journey exemplifies how women can evolve their paths in beautiful, unforeseen ways while empowering others to “work hard and do the right thing”.

Patricia Jones embodies what it means to be a strong female leader, showing that with passion, resilience, and empathy, women can not only succeed but also lead with grace and strength in ever-evolving industries.

Thank you, Patricia, for sharing your story and for being a trailblazer in the world of aesthetics. Tune in to this week’s podcast episode to hear more about Patricia’s inspiring journey and her insights on leading with purpose.

Follow us @wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcast on Instagram for updates on new episodes and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

Where Brains Meet Beauty Podcast is proud to announce its third Listen Again Awards! These awards recognize past guests whose episodes have made a lasting impact and inspire us to “listen again”! We’re dedicating this episode to the Listen Again Award recipients: Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, Rachel Liverman, and Chris Collins. Highlights from these great conversations and short remarks from the winners are included in this episode. 

In Episode 220, Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, Senior Director at Procter and Gamble, received the Listen Again ‘Archive’ Award. Beyond product creation lies a profound commitment to transparency and education, as Dr. Wilkerson advocates for humanizing the beauty industry.

In Episode 254, Rachel Liverman, Founder and CEO of Glowbar, received the Listen Again ‘CEO Wisdom’ Award. Rachel's passion for esthetics and her entrepreneurial spirit transformed Glowbar’s 30-minute facials into a sensation since its 2019 launch. 

In Episode 257 Chris Collins, CEO and Founder of The World of Chris Collins, received the Listen Again ‘Influencer Wisdom’ Award. From modeling for Ralph Lauren to creating captivating perfumes, we travel through Chris’s journey emphasizing seizing opportunities and mentorship. 

Thank you to all our guests for sharing your career journeys with us, and congratulations to the Listen Again Award recipients! We hope you enjoy these episodes as much as we do!